As you guys know, I’m always on the prowl for pretty blushes and bronzers. My latest obsession with these cheek-enhancing products is cream blush. I’ve been using one brand in particular for the past couple of weeks just to switch things up a bit since winter arrived.

I’ve found that using cream-based blushes are actually great alternatives to powder blushes during the colder months because they add a bit of much-needed moisture to dry skin. Plus, they provide an enviable dewy look that is usually only attainable during the warm seasons. So go ahead and get a head start on summer with a sexy, creamy cheek color. TIP: Berry-hues, dark reds and deep pinks are the most complementary on many BG skin tones.

Have you ever used a cream blush? If so, what are your thoughts?

Jane Iredale Cream Blush available at www.janeiredaledirect.com for $26

Nars Cream Blush available at www.nordstrom.com for $23.50

Clinique Blush Wear Cream Stick available at www.saks.com for $18.50

M-A-C Blushcream available at www.nordstrom.com for $18

DuWop Blush Therapy Retreat available at www.skinstore.com for $22

Prescriptives Blush More or Less Creamy Color available at www.prescriptives.com for $21.50

Revlon Cream Blush with Pop-up Mirror available at www.drugstore.coom for $8.81

Ulta Cream Blush available at www.ulta.com for $6.50

Since winter is here to stay for the next few months, now is definitely NOT the time to skimp on moisturizing! Harsh winter winds can wreak havoc on our skin if not properly treated. The best way to protect it during these cold days is to use a facial moisturizer (ideally with SPF 15). I never leave the house without applying a double dose of Oil of Olay; it’s the best for maintaining a healthy glow, while combatting dull, winter-ridden skin!

Do you double-up your daily moisturizing routine during the winter? If so, what is your favorite brand?

Check out some of these top moisturizers!

Oil of Olay Complete Daily Moisturizer available at www.drugstore.com for $10.99

Juice Beauty Organic Facial Moisturizer Concentrate available at www.sephora.com for $36

Hope in a Jar Moisturizer available at www.sephora.com for $15

Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense Facial Moisturizer SPF-50 available at www.drugstore.com for $13.99

Ambi Facial Moisturizer available at www.target.com for $9.49

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 (4 oz.) available at www.barneys.com $29.50

Dove Deep Moisture Facial Cream available at www.skinstore.com for $6.99

You guys know that I am bonafide lip-gloss girl. I’ve made several failed attempts at crossing over to the land of lipstick, but never found one that gave me the texture and color that I preferred – until now! That’s right BGG has finally found a lipstick that I would use regularly. My new beauty bag essential is the “Two Timer” core lipstick by Tropez.

I’m a fan because it has a moisturizing balm containing vitamins A,C,E, aloe vera and jojoba oil in the center. These hydrating ingredients make the application go on smoothly and leaves lips feeling soft unlike most lipsticks. I have the “Cancun” color and it complements my skin tone perfectly. Plus, the best part is that you can find them in a variety of shades at drugstores nationwide for only $2.99! These days, you can’t beat that price!

Have you ever tried any Tropez products? Since many of you don’t prefer lipstick, what’s your reason? Please share!

Recently, I was asked to test a few new mineral-based products from Covergirl’s Queen Latifah’s “Queen Collection.” Since I had never used any of the beauty products from the line, I was excited for the opportunity to try the bronzer and pressed powder. I have tried several mineral makeup lines in the past, but this one is less expensive, but still gets the job done.

Although I don’t typically use pressed powder, I was pleased to see that it successfully absorbed the excess oil from my face leaving it looking camera-ready! Because you guys know how much I love to use blushes, applying the bronzer was an absolute treat. It gave me a gorgeous warm glow, which was a bit of a change from my tried and true Tarte cheek stain. Tip, don’t apply too much!! Be sure to tap your brush to remove excess bronzer!

Have you tried the mineral makeup from Covergirl? Have you ever used products from the “Queen Collection?” Just leave a comment and one lucky winner will receive a bronzer and a pressed powder!

Natural Hue Pressed Powder available at www.drugstore.com for $7.36

Natural Hue Bronzer available at www.drugstore.com for $7.36

If you’ve heard of or tried any Yes to Carrots products, you’ll be happy to learn that they have expanded their family! Yes to Tomatoes is one of the newest additions to the brand. Just like the original, Yes to Tomatoes also boasts a line of paraben-free products that are 99.6% natural. The key ingredients are of course, tomatoes, watermelon, antioxidant rooibos and Vitamin A and C.

Recently, I had the pleasure of trying the thick and rich “Truly Terrific” Body Butter. The title doesn’t do this product justice; it’s more than terrific, it’s fantastic! You guys have read several times about how dry my skin is, so when I’m ecstatic about a new lotion, you know it must be good! The scent is delightful, not too aromatic, but just right. It easily hydrates my super dry skin without feeling overly greasy or gooey; plus, it’s long lasting!!

Available at drugstores nationwide for $12.99

Have you ever tried any Yes to Carrots or Tomatoes products? If so, what are your thoughts?